Since reports first broke last night that LeBron had decided to sign with the Miami Heat, there has been a massive reaction across the country to the news. Some fans are outraged, calling James a "traitor" and saying "he will never be close to Jordan's legacy now". Others are excited to imagine the possibilities of the new Big Three and potentially one of the best teams ever.
If LeBron goes to Miami, every single free agent still on the market will atleast take a hard look at the Heat. Even for a massive cut, you'd be foolish to not even consider the option of playing side-by-side with James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. The over/under on that team with just those three players alone would be near 60 wins a season. Add some veteran help around their core, throw in a spot up shooter, and that number climbs to 70.
There may be higher expectations on James in Miami than Jordan had in Chicago. If LeBron leaves Cleveland for the Heat, almost every fan in Ohio will feel betrayed, and everyone in the country will be expecting his new team to win a title next season or atleast make the Finals. Michael Jordan had Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, who were definitely stars, but Wade and Bosh may be an even more imposing duo. How would teams guard these three guys? Can't double team them all, and if you make one wrong move, you're going to get lit up.
There have been multiple reports saying LeBron flew into Miami last night to meet with Pat Riley, and if those reports are true, it appears the drama on his hour-long special tonight might already be over. Some people don't think James can play with Wade, and that he has to have the ball to be successful. Why couldn't three of the top 10 players in the NBA not find a way to make this work? You have to have an enormous basketball IQ to be as successful as this trio, and they will be able to find a way to make it work within a matter of a few games.
LeBron reportedly talked to Wade and Bosh on atleast four occasions yesterday. Their last conversation ended with LeBron saying "I'll see you on Friday." If that is the case, all 29 other teams better watch out because this team is going to be absolutely lethal if James does in fact sign with the Heat. Barring any late change of heart by LeBron, expect Miami to be the home of King James when he makes his official announcement tonight.
